Jody and Matt's Topanga Canyon Wedding at the 1909
Putting together this blog post really brought back all of the good vibes and beauty that existed on this day. We had so much fun documenting Jody + Matt's wedding at The 1909, a venue in Topanga Canyon that is absolutely stunning and totally the epitome of California magic. There was a certain type of peace between these lovebirds and we were so happy to have caught it in their portraits. It's such an amazing thing to feel an energy through a photo! We hope you feel it too. Scroll on down to see more of these dreamy kids + their epic wedding day!
Photography: The Gathering Season
Venue & Catering: The 1909
Coordination & Florals: The Ruffle Effect
Music/DJ: Vox DJs - Tommy O'Sullivan
Cake & Desserts: Porto's Bakery
Bartender: Lauren Andino
Photo booth: Photo VW Bus
Rings: Liza Shtromberg Jewelry & Prestige Jewelry
Groom's Suit: ASOS
Groomsmen's Suits: Men's Warehouse
Bridesmaids' Dresses: BHLDN
Wedding Dress: Rebecca Schoneveld at Bride LA Bridal Boutique
Veil: BHLDN
Jewelry: Davie & Chiyo
Bride's Shoes: Aldo
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Sam & Mike's wedding in the Arts District of LA
We may be guilty of having a little too much fun at Sam and Mike's wedding in the Arts District DTLA. From start to finish these two were SOOOO much fun to be around, we were laughing and dancing and snapping photos left & right. The wedding took place at Millwick, an amazing venue that has a beautiful lofted event space but also a lovely outdoor area that is super lush & green. The whole day really felt like a little getaway within the city and we were so happy to be a part of it. Now keep that mouse scrollin to see all of this gorgeous day!!
Photographers: The Gathering Season
Venue: Millwick
Getting Ready Location: Arts District Loft 1908
Coordinator: Little Birdies Events & Co.
Caterer: Huntington Catering
Hair + Make Up: Kelly Zhang
Videographer: Drew Boylan
Photo Booth: Classic Photo Booth
Florist: Karyn Chereek, Whole Foods
Valet: White Label Valet
Dessert: Donut Snob
Cake: Portos Bakery
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Yari & Dario's Joshua Tree Elopement
Yes we are always up for an adventure but when Yari and Dario said that we'd be heading out to Joshua Tree National Park we were like two kids on Christmas eve night! Elopements hold a special place in our hearts - documenting a private, intimate ceremony between two individuals is truly one of the most magical things we've ever witnessed. With Yari and Dario, it was impossible not to tear up over their bond and the warmth that existed between them. They had picked out a completely surreal spot to exchange vows, it was pure sky and trees for days - it really felt like a little slice of heaven just for us. Alright, enough! But seriously.. such an amazing day! Scroll for more :)
Jessie and Claudio's Engagement Session
Jessie and Claudio had us seriously maxin' out on good vibes during their engagement session. We adventured out to Vasquez Rocks with them and romped around the surreal landscape all the way up until the last minutes of light. If you haven't been, peek the photos below and plan your day trip out there once you're done ;) p.s super short trip for those of you in LA!
Sophia and Greg's June Lake wedding
Boy, June Lake really feels like the top of the world - from the mountain views and the skies for days this venue was totally otherworldly. It was the perfect match for Sophia and Greg, who had the most sincere, passionate love for each other - looking through their first look still gives us a serious case of watery eyes! Anywho, If you've never seen a bridal party enter on a chairlift we highly suggest you continue scrollin'.. :)
Getting Ready Venue: Victory Lodge
Ceremony and Reception Venue: June Mountain Ski Area
Photography : The Gathering Season
Choosing an engagement session location
The location of a photograph can say a million words about a couple. You just got engaged and you're thinking, "how and where do we document this amazing milestone?" We love answering this question because it allows you, the couple, to start telling your story and it gives us a better understanding of who you are as a couple.
With this in mind, we are dedicating this post to a few tips we have to help you choose a location that's best for you - we'll even cover what to wear and how to prep for your session.
How do we decide on a location?
A great place to start: Where do you spend your days off together? Do you take a day trip out of the city to see some nature or do you hit DTLA for a day of museums, food and beer? Maybe you're homebodies and you like to have a casual chill day at home or in your neighborhood. The best tip we can give out is to pick something that feels natural - pick a place that you can let loose, relax and have a good time. And remember, this session is all about celebrating and documenting the damn fine time of being engaged :)
What do we wear?
Good question ;) First off, picking your location will help you pick what to wear. Remember that being comfortable and feeling good in your own skin should be your first priority. With that said, photos tend to look more visually stunning when you dress according to the environment you choose - if you're in nature, chose colors that compliment your surrounding. If you opt for an urban environment, choosing a dressier outfit can help to balance out the edgier city feel. Another pro tip: Layers can be a great and easy way to change your look up. If you plan on doing an outfit change or two, keep in mind that not all locations will have a proper changing area. Think of 'complimenting' and not 'matching.' Avoid loud colors or patterns on the clothing, it might be too distracting. And no logos or slogans on clothing, either.
Can we do anything to prep for our engagement session?
Yes! There are plenty of things to be done pre-engagement session. We love to tell our couples to spend some time in front of the mirror.
Practice thinking about your posture and remember to relax while taking photographs.
Timing is everything. Keep in mind when scheduling your engagement session that best time to take photos tends to be before sunset or before sunrise. Consider the mood you are going for and schedule accordingly - we're always happy to help with this decision.
Important note: It's best to be a bit early to the session vs. a little late as lighting is sensitive and limited. The right light is our BFF.
Ladies! If you plan on having professional make up on your wedding day, the engagement session is a great time to schedule your make-up trial day.
Most importantly, this is a session about you, and your love story. Be yourselves, relax, and have fun!
Contact us if you have any questions. We’d love to hear from you!
Love this post? Got a question that you want us to answer? Comment below and we'll get back to you in a flash <3
Kelsey and Tyson's Santa Monica Engagement Session
We crossed the city to celebrate Kelsey & Tyson's engagement at Finn McCool's and where else but the beautiful Pacific Ocean! Romping around the west side is always a nice change of pace and it's especially fun to wander with a lovely, goofy couple. Kelsey wore this beautiful yellow skirt that was SO magical during the golden hour. Scroll on down to see more of these beautiful people!
Alison and Andrew's Kenneth Hahn Park Engagement
Kenneth Hahn Park is an LA gem and we had a blast running around the glistening grounds with Alison and Andrew in celebration of their engagement. The golden hour came around and perfectly caught the loving sparkle in their eyes as they laughed, twirled and held each other close - a seriously adorable thing to behold. We've said it before, we'll say it again, more days like this please!
Gage and Michael's Santa Barbara Courthouse Wedding
Making the short trip to Santa Barbara is always a treat especially when we get to spend some time at the beautiful Santa Barbara Courthouse. Gage & Michael's wedding day was a constant display of affection and gentleness - it made us feel warm and cozy and it truly was one of the highlights of our summer. It was the absolute cherry on top that their wedding guests were a blast! Scroll on down to see more of these cuties and their lovely day..
Coordination and Design: Wild Heart Events
Flowers: Ella & Louie
Desserts: Enjoy Cupcakes
Ceremony Venue: Santa Barbara Courthouse, Mural Room
Reception Venue: Canary Hotel, Santa Barbara, CA
Photography: The Gathering Season